26 newly employed rangers and field officers commenced training today with the ACT Parks and Conservation Service to help in bushfire recovery, as part of the ACT Government’s Jobs for Canberrans fund.

Over 500 people applied for the 26 positions indicating there are plenty of Canberrans looking for work.

Minister for the Environment and Heritage Mick Gentleman says that these 26 new jobs will not only benefit those individuals, but will help the Namadgi National Park recover from the bushfire disaster earlier this year.

“The team starts training today and is keen to start work on the ground in two weeks. Their work will also benefit from approximately $1 million of fast-track project funding to deliver critical bushfire recovery and other works in our reserves. Local businesses and contractors will supply the necessary resources.

“Six Ngunnawal rangers have been appointed to join the bushfire recovery team, particularly to Care for Country aiding in the recovery of our natural and cultural heritage after the bushfire this year.

“The Jobs for Canberrans fund is helping the ACT recover from the disaster of the bushfire in Namadgi National Park while easing the economic pressures caused by the COVID-19 health emergency.

The $20 million Jobs for Canberrans fund was launched by the ACT Government last month to provide work opportunities for Canberrans in the casual or semi-skilled workforce who have been significantly impacted due to the current COVID-19 pandemic.

344 new jobs have now been approved across the ACT Public Service, following the recent addition of a further 156 jobs. New roles include cleaners for schools and maintenance officers for schools and roads.

Over 30 Canberrans commence employment this week as part of the fund, while more than 50 others will receive job offers and over 50 roles will enter the shortlisting and interview process.

For more details about the Jobs for Canberrans fund, including eligibility, visit covid19.act.gov.au/jobsforcanberrans.